picnic rice salad

It's been a long, long week full of clouds, rain and commitments. Today is looking promising though. So promising in fact, that I think Manu and I will have our lunch outside, maybe on a blanket, on our balcony. I'll pack little cups of colorful rice salad and we'll drink fizzy water with lemon plus have a girl scout cookie or two (or six) for dessert. All I need is a really beautiful picnic basket, like this one and an adorable picnic outfit like this one and I'm set.

Picnic Rice Salad
adapted from this recipe
for the rice
2 cups cooked rice
1 small red onion chopped
1 yellow pepper chopped
2 grated carrots
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup raisins
for the dressing
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Combine the dressing ingredients and whisk thoroughly. Pour over the cooled rice, blending well, and add the vegetables. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve at room temperature.

Thanks to everyone who's entered the mini stovetop espresso pot giveaway! Your comments had me cracking up, and I wish I could give one to all of you. Even Manu's uncle stopped me on the street yesterday to tell me how much he wants it too! Ha! Hope you all have a glorious weekend. :)